A Daily Need

The hanging baskets were beautiful. Each basket spilled over with an abundance of petunias. I had hung them where they would be visible even when we were inside the house. They added such a 'homey' touch and provided the pop of color I was looking for.

After a couple of weeks, I noticed that they weren't quite as perky as they had been originally. I found my watering can and gave each plant what I thought was a thorough soaking. I rechecked their tags to be sure I had hung them where they could get the appropriate amount of sunshine. Hmmmmm...everything seemed to check out. They were supposed to be able to tolerate the amount of sunlight they were receiving and I'd watered them several times. But in spite of doing everything I could think of, they continued to look droopy.

I decided to put aside the watering can in favor of the hose. Maybe, just maybe, the plants needed more water than I was giving them. I watered them until the soil was saturated and began running out of the cocoa mat planters. Within hours, each plant had improved dramatically. Although they weren't back to their original splendor, it was clear to see that with the appropriate daily watering, the plants would once again be thriving!

What a perfect object lesson! It was impossible to miss the connection between what my plants needed in order to thrive physically, and what I need in order to thrive spiritually. Both require daily provision. A constant connection to the source that allows each to grow strong and healthy. In the case of my plants, I hadn't been watering them every day. They are large plants and required much more water than my little watering can could hold. In my case, I need to hear from God daily in order to keep my feet on the right path. Reading and studying the Bible to glean what He has for me each day. Applying what He shows me that I might be a faithful 'doer' of His word. A believer who is growing. One who brings my Savior honor and glory and consistently points others to Him.

The prayer of the apostle Paul for the Ephesian believers provides the right focus, "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledege, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Ephesians 3:16-19; KJV).

To be strengthened by His Spirit, rooted and grounded in His love, and filled with all the fulness of God! Realize that Christ is the Source who is able to meet your needs and turn to Him daily for true health and growth!